Tips for March Break Hockey Tournaments: A Guide for Coaches, Parents, and Players

March break hockey tournaments are an exciting time for players, parents, and coaches. With multiple games in a short period, these events test endurance, preparation, and mindset.

Whether you're leading a team, supporting from the stands, or lacing up your skates, here are essential tips to make the most of the experience.

Tips for Coaches: Leading Your Team to Success

1. Manage Player Workloads

Tournament schedules are demanding, with back-to-back games and short recovery windows. Coaches must balance ice time to keep players fresh.

• Rotate lines efficiently, ensuring all players contribute.

• Manage shift lengths—shorter, high-energy shifts are better than long, draining ones.

• Be mindful of overusing key players early in the tournament.

2. Plan Effective Pre-Game Routines

Consistency in pre-game routines helps players stay focused. Ensure every game starts with proper preparation.

• Stick to a structured warm-up—dynamic stretching, off-ice movement, and light stickhandling.

• Keep pre-game speeches short and to the point—remind players of key systems and goals.

• Avoid overwhelming players with too many adjustments between games.

3. Adjust Tactics Based on Opponents

Each opponent will bring different challenges. Be flexible and make necessary in-game adjustments.

• If playing a physical team, emphasize quick puck movement and avoiding battles along the boards.

• Against a highly skilled team, focus on tight defensive play and neutral zone structure.

• Make use of video (if possible) or simple notes to review opponents’ tendencies before games.

4. Keep the Bench Positive and Engaged

Tournaments come with emotional highs and lows. A strong bench culture helps keep morale high.

• Stay positive, even after tough periods—players feed off the coach’s energy.

• Give constructive feedback, but avoid over-coaching during games.

• Rotate roles—give different players leadership opportunities on and off the ice.

5. Recovery and Nutrition Matter

With multiple games in a day, recovery is just as important as performance.

• Encourage hydration—players should drink water or electrolyte-based drinks frequently.

• Provide simple recovery snacks like fruit, protein bars, and nuts between games.

• Avoid heavy meals before games; opt for lean proteins, complex carbs, and vegetables.

Tips for Parents: Supporting Without Overwhelming

1. Be a Supporter, Not a Coach

It’s tempting to offer technical advice, but that’s the coach’s job. Your role is to provide encouragement.

• Avoid post-game critiques—stick to positive reinforcement.

• Let your child process their performance before discussing it.

• Keep conversations light—ask about their favorite play rather than what they could have done better.

2. Plan Ahead for a Smooth Experience

Tournament days are long and unpredictable. A little preparation can go a long way.

• Bring extra water bottles, snacks, and a first-aid kit.

• Pack extra gear (socks, laces, tape) in case of emergencies.

• Know the schedule and rink locations to avoid last-minute stress.

3. Create a Positive Team Atmosphere

Parents influence team culture as much as coaches and players.

• Support all players—cheer for great plays, regardless of who made them.

• Avoid negative talk about coaching decisions or other teams.

• Respect officials—bad calls happen, but setting a good example is more important.

4. Encourage Rest and Recovery

With multiple games in a short time, rest is crucial.

• Ensure your child gets enough sleep between games.

• Promote relaxation—watching a movie or reading between games can help them reset.

• Limit screen time at night to promote better sleep quality.

5. Make It Fun!

March break tournaments should be enjoyable.

• Organize team meals or bonding activities.

• Take photos and celebrate the experience.

• Remind your child that it’s about growth, not just winning.

Tips for Players: Competing at Your Best

1. Start Strong with Proper Warm-Ups

A proper warm-up prepares your body and mind.

• Arrive early to mentally focus before hitting the ice.

• Do dynamic stretches to loosen up muscles.

• Stay engaged—visualizing plays or doing simple stickhandling drills can help.

2. Manage Your Energy Levels

Tournaments require strategic energy use.

• Play hard but smart—don’t waste energy chasing plays out of position.

• Stick to short, intense shifts rather than overextending yourself.

• Hydrate before, during, and after games.

3. Stay Mentally Focused

With multiple games, staying sharp mentally is just as important as physical performance.

• Don’t dwell on mistakes—reset after every shift.

• Listen to your coach’s adjustments, but don’t overthink.

• Keep a positive mindset—confidence fuels performance.

4. Recovery Between Games Is Key

What you do between games impacts your next performance.

• Refuel with healthy snacks—avoid junk food and energy drinks.

• Stretch and cool down to prevent stiffness.

• Rest—take breaks from the rink when possible.

5. Have Fun and Enjoy the Experience

March break tournaments create memories that last a lifetime.

• Play for the love of the game, not just for wins.

• Enjoy the time with teammates—these moments are special.

• Remember: effort and attitude matter more than the scoreboard.

Final Thoughts

March break tournaments are a thrilling opportunity for hockey players, coaches, and parents. Success isn’t just about winning—it’s about preparation, teamwork, and creating positive experiences.

Coaches should focus on strategy, workload management, and team culture. Parents should support without overstepping, promote recovery, and make the experience enjoyable. Players need to manage their energy, stay mentally engaged, and embrace the competition.

By following these tips, everyone involved can maximize the tournament experience and create lasting memories—on and off the ice.

Ed Garinger is a seasoned hockey coach, mentor, and educator with over two decades of experience. A native of the Bruce Peninsula, he played minor and junior hockey before earning his BA and BEd from Nipissing University, where he also competed in varsity volleyball and extramural hockey.

Coaching since age 14, Ed has balanced his teaching career with an extensive coaching and development portfolio, working with players at all levels. He has coached in the Provincial Junior Hockey League, led youth and high school teams, and served as a learning facilitator for the OMHA. His experience includes elite programs like the OHL/OHF U15 and U16 camps, U17 Regional Camps, and Hockey Canada’s Skills Academy.

A Hockey Canada HP1-certified coach, USA Hockey-certified coach, and Chartered Professional Coach (ChPC), Ed is committed to ongoing professional development and continually seeks to expand his knowledge to better serve players and coaches. Now based in Orillia, he enjoys passing on his passion for hockey to the next generation.